Introduction to the Alexander Technique: A Practical Guide for Actors

by Bill Connington

Introduction to the Alexander Technique, part of the brand-new Acting Essentials series, is the first textbook about the Alexander Technique written specially for undergraduates. This eight-week program can be taught over the course of half a semester, a full semester, or dipped into as needed to address students' issues with physicality, movement, breathing, voice and performance habits. The Alexander Technique has been a vital part of training for performers since the early 20th century. It is a core part of the curriculum at most acting conservatories and in many BFA programs. Sometimes considered purely a movement discipline, the Alexander Technique in fact takes into consideration the entire person-mind, body, voice, emotions, and imagination. Introduction to the Alexander Technique addresses the student's self as a whole and is suitable for beginning acting students in any academic setting, including those who take performance classes as an elective. The book also includes more than 150 practical, easy-to-follow exercises that help students reduce tension and improve their alignment, flexibility, and poise. The textbook is supported by a range of online videos demonstrating key exercises described throughout the book.

177 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 23, 2020

About the author

Bill Connington is an actor, writer, and Alexander Technique teacher. He is a Lecturer in Acting at the Yale School of Drama. Bill is the book series editor for "Acting Essentials," the first book series for undergraduate drama. He has two feature films in the works.

"A clear, detailed, and practical account of how the Alexander Technique can help liberate performers from habitual psychophysical tensions, allowing them to access the deepest and most creative impulses in their work." - Walton Wilson, Chair, Department of Acting, and Head of Voice and Speech, Yale School of Drama

"In small, doable steps, Bill guides the actor toward a healthy, creative life as a performer--always with a supportive, encouraging tone and attention to process as opposed to results." - Kim Jessor, faculty, Tisch School of the Arts at the New York University Graduate Acting Program

"Bill Connington writes with insight, clarity, and flair about a subject he loves and shares his valuable perspective on the training of actors by exploring the all-important connection between body, mind, and spirit. In a voice both friendly and knowledgeable, Physical Expression on Stage and Screen guides the actor from class to rehearsal to performance." - Jessica Wolf, Assistant Professor, Yale School of Drama; director of "Jessica Wolf's Art of Breathing."

"Actors Swear By This Mindful Movement Practice. Here's How You Can Benefit From It, Too"--Huffington Post: http://huff.to/VHrMU1

"Yale Drama Teacher Bill Connington Publishes New Book About the Alexander Technique"--Broadwayworld.com
http://bit.ly/1pZgH8v

16 page sample of "Physical Expression on Stage and Screen": http://bit.ly/1opCrcZ

Bill Connington publisher's page: http://bit.ly/1s6obg0

IG: @billconnington1

www.facebook.com/billconnington

Goodreads page: http://bit.ly/1pvmAQ5 (including a blog)